How to Dry Out Your Wet Electronics – Step by Step
Accidents involving water and electronics can be devastating, but acting quickly and following the right steps can significantly increase the chances of saving your device. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to dry out your wet electronics effectively.
Immediate Action: Turning Off the Device and Removing Power
If your device is still on after being exposed to water, the first step is to turn it off completely. This is crucial because leaving the device on can cause short circuits, which can lead to permanent damage. For devices with removable batteries, take the battery out immediately to prevent any further electrical activity.
Removing External Components and Cases
Remove any external cases, covers, or accessories to allow water to drain out more easily. If possible, remove the SIM card, memory cards, and any other removable components to dry them separately. This helps in speeding up the drying process and reduces the risk of damage to these components.
Removing Water from the Device
Gently shake the device to remove any visible water. Use a soft cloth to pat the device dry, focusing on any openings or ports where water might have entered. For more thorough removal of water, you may need to disassemble the device to expose the interior. Be cautious not to damage any components during this process.
Using Compressed Air and Other Tools
Use a can of compressed air to blow out any remaining water, but be careful not to spray the air directly on sensitive circuitry. Hold the can at a distance and avoid tilting it to prevent cold air from freezing parts of the device. Alternatively, you can use a hair dryer on a cool setting to help evaporate the water, but never use hot air as it can cause further damage.
Applying Alcohol for Corrosion Prevention
If the device was exposed to dirty or corrosive water, use a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol (at least 92% concentration) to clean the affected areas. Gently scrub any visible corrosion and then blow on the area to help the alcohol evaporate. This step is crucial in preventing corrosion that can occur after the initial water exposure.
Drying with Desiccants
Place the device in a sealed container with desiccants such as silica gel. Silica gel is more effective than rice or oats because it actively absorbs moisture without leaving residues. Leave the device in the container for at least 48 hours, or up to a week if necessary, to ensure thorough drying.
Using Airflow for Drying
Airflow can be an effective method for drying electronics. Place the device in front of a fan to provide constant airflow, which helps to evaporate any remaining moisture. If the air is humid, consider using an air conditioner or dehumidifier to reduce the humidity and aid in the drying process.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Avoid Using Rice: Rice is not an effective drying agent and can leave residues inside the device. It also does not actively remove moisture, which can lead to corrosion.
- Avoid Heat: Never use hot air from a hair dryer or oven to dry electronics. Heat can cause thermal throttling, damage components, or trigger overheat protection mechanisms.
- Avoid Static Electricity: When using a vacuum cleaner to remove water, use the lowest setting and avoid holding the vacuum too close to the device to prevent generating static electricity.
Professional Restoration
If your device does not power on after following these steps or shows signs of water damage, it may be best to seek professional help. Professional water damage restoration services have specialized equipment and expertise to recover electronics that might otherwise be unrecoverable.